A Primitive Evolution

The Prize

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A Primitive Evolution – or as abbreviated by fans, A.P.E – seem to suggest their tailor-made variety of musical composition eponymously. From the first song of their latest album The Prize, this Canadian alternative blues rock band embrace an evolution of industrial synthesised resonances and altered sampling to create a unique balance of old school rock ‘n’ roll with the modern influence of electronica.

The songs, however, are re-imaginings on previous successful excursions of guitar-heavy, typically overindulgent punchy grunginess. The distressed basses and guitars which created distinguishable riffs on former hits have been dialled down a couple of notches to more melodic overtures. The difference is in that, less intimidating drumming and a sense that – to paraphrase The Matrix somewhat – A.P.E have unplugged from the grid and perform acoustically.

Yet, this is a band who are heavily inspired by so many of the greats - Stone Roses, Tool, Outkast, Led Zeppelin, Radiohead – unfortunately, many of these bands are still operational, so it begs the question “why buy A.P.E over the rest?” ‘Lord of Reason’ for example sounds like a Love Spit Love’s ‘How Soon Is Now’; it has that same pop sensibility that makes it sound like it’s destined to grace the opening credits of some TV drama series. Whilst applauding their effort to commercialise their work by softening the edge, what I wouldn’t give to have just heard an album of them making the type of noise they know best.